United Way of Mifflin-Juniata reaches two-thirds of its goal

January 18, 2014

LEWISTOWN - The United Way of Mifflin-Juniata has reached 66 percent, or $396,570 of its goal of $600,000, during the campaign that began Sept. 18 and runs until March 15.

The NuVisions Center is one of the agencies that benefits from working with the United Way. Roxie Garrett, resource coordinator at United Way of Mifflin-Juniata, discussed how partnering with the United Way has served the NuVisions Center:

"The condition of a community is measured by the wellness of its people. In an effort to provide our region with stronger public health, the United Way of Mifflin-Juniata partners with the NuVisions Center, a local resource that helps clients afford eye exams and eye glasses at a reduced cost. Their mission is to improve the lives of those with vision, physical or mental impairments through services and employment, as well as to educate the public about vision loss.

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"For those in need, the process of correcting vision is a life-altering event,'' according to Kate Long, community service manager at NuVisions, who also said the clients' responses are often powerful.

"'One woman broke down in tears when she realized she could see again,' Long said.

Long also spoke of instances where clients were unable to afford exams and glasses, when their insurance was not enough to cover the expense. For a client named Julie, minimal insurance coverage was not enough to restore her vision, but a referral from a friend led her to seek help at NuVisions.

"In Julie's case, reduced pricing on a pair of glasses was a great asset that she desperately needed. The ability to see is such a vital part of everyday life, and NuVisions is allowing more and more local residents to experience that fundamental ability,'' She added.

"The United Way contributes to NuVisions Center by funding eye examinations and glasses for qualifying applicants. In the last year, approximately 250 clients received eyeglasses through NuVisions. The people of Mifflin and Juniata counties are experiencing renewed sight due to the effectiveness of this agency. As the 2014 United Way campaign continues, we hope to further the positive impact of what can be done when you can see."